Nemours Mansion and Gardens

Nemours Mansion and Gardens ranks 5th on the list of the best day trips from Pennsylvania. Nemours Mansion in Wilmington, Delaware, rivals the Newport mansions in opulence and grandeur, and was a gift from Alfred du Pont to his wife Alicia. Nemours was their home until 1970, so unlike some over-the-top mansions, it appears quite livable, with furnishings and art arranged for use rather than display. That does not detract from the spectacular interior, which contains priceless antiques and art treasures. However, you may need to look for the latter, which is frequently hung unassumingly in a bedroom or hallway.

The Conservatory, Music Room, Dining Room, and Drawing Room are highlights, but don't miss the Bowling Alley, Billiard Room, and Mechanical Rooms, which feature ingenious early refrigeration equipment. The grounds, which include the most extensive formal French gardens in North America, are as impressive as the house itself, with multiple gardens, grand gates, colonnades, and pools. The mansion's second-floor terrace provides the best views of the intricately patterned parterre garden of immaculately trimmed boxwood.

Google rating: 4.7/5.0

Phone: (302) 651-6912

Address: 850 Alapocas Drive, Wilmington, Delaware

Website: https://nemoursestate.org/